NFDA appoints David Newman as chairman

The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) has appointed former Ridgeway Group chief executive David Newman as its new chairman effective from today.

Newman succeeds Mark Squires whose tenure as chairman ended at the end of 2019 following his three years of service.

Newman has extensive experience in the automotive retail industry having worked at Ridgeway Group for 20 years as chief executive, chairman and owner of the business.

The company was sold to Marshall Motor Holdings in May 2016.

Newman began his career as a graduate trainee with Ford. Subsequently, he worked in a number of field management roles with Citroen UK.

He has a BSc (Hons) in Politics and Economics from Loughborough University.

Squires said: “It has been my pleasure and privilege to work with the NFDA. During my three years as chairman, I have seen the profile of the association grow alongside the launch of innovative initiatives.

“It was particularly rewarding to play an active role in the development of the now well-established Consumer Attitude Survey. I wish David every success.”

Newman said: “I am delighted to take on the role of NFDA chairman during a time of significant changes in the automotive industry.

“I look forward to supporting director Sue Robinson, her team and UK franchised retailers over the next years. I would very much like to thank Mark Squires for his years of service.”

Freelance writer for AM, Tom Seymour has been a specialist B2B journalist covering the automotive sector for over 14 years. He started his freelance career in 2015 and currently writes for a variety of automotive, business and technology publications.